# Sam Houston State UniversicyFebruary 1, 2016 A Member ofThe Texas State University System 

### DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS Dr. John Wilson Department ofPhysics Sam Houston State University Box 2267 Huntsville, Texas 77341-2267 936 294-1607 jfw008@shsu.edu

U.S. Department ofTransportation, Docket Operations West Building Ground Floor, Room w12-140 1200NewJersey Avenue, SE. Washington, DC 20590 Electronically Submittedbythe Federal DocketManagement System (FDMS) Re: Exemptionrequest from several regulatory requirements to permitthe use ofUnmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) that weigh less than 55 lbs. in Sam Houston State University for researchbythe Department ofPhysics and DepartmentofAgricultural Sciences & 

### Engineering Technology (SHSUPHY). Dear Sir orMadam: Pursuantto FAA Section 333 ofP.L. 112-95 333 and 14 C.F.R. Sec. 11.81, Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics (SHSUPHY) requests the exemption from several sections oftheTitle 14 ofthe Code ofFederal Regulations (C.F.R

.) in orderto carry outresearch withinthe Sam Houston StateUniversity Department ofPhysics and Department ofAgricultural Sciences & 

### Engineering Technology using small, weighing less than 55 lbs, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Current research investigates thermal imaging for the monitoring ofagriculture crop irrigationmonitoring in Texas. We propose this exemption in the interest ofproviding increased safety inthe use ofUAS in research for precision agriculture. We arepursuing the request for exemptioninaccordance withthe intent ofCongress in Section 333 oftheFAA Modernizationand Reform Act of2012 1

### to permitthe use ofsafe systems inthe national airspace in advance ofthe issuance offinal regulations for the general use ofUAS.2 

### The FAA has previously granted such reliefin ExemptionsNo. 11136, 11166, 11170, 11177, 11192,11193, 11194, 12098,and 13696.

1 P.L. 112-95, 126 Stat II, F ehruary 14,2012, 2 Section 333(b) (2) anticipates that the Federal Administration Authority (FAA) may provide a certificate waiver when it finds that a specific UAS with consideration for its size

. w eight, airworthiness, and speed as well as its proximity to areas ofhigh populations and airports

.The FAA also includes in its approval process whether or notthe UAS as specified in the exemption request may result in line ofsight operations that might result in hazards to those participating in the use ofthe: UAS, atreat to national security, orpublic safety. Sam Houston State University is.an Equal Opportunity/AffirmativeAction Institution Huntsville, Texas 77341-2267 • 936.294.1601 • Fax 936

.294.1585This petitionfor exemption requests authorization for the operation in remote rural and agricultural areas similarto such areas described in ExemptionsNo. 11136, 11166, 11170, 11177, 11192, 11193, 11194, 12098, and 13696. These areas fall generally within the conditions ofthe blanket COA provided by the 333 Exemption. Moreover, this petition for exemptionrequests authorization to train people in the use ofUAS through educational outreachto those involved in k-12 agriculture, people involved inforestation management, and people active invarious agricultural areas. Educational outreachrequires the Pilot in Command (PIC) teach an unlicensed individual the flight operational procedures for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus before the individual or individuals obtain FAA certification. During training, only individuals who possess a current FAA third-class airmanmedical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District ofColumbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, apossession, orthe Federal governmentwill be permittedto operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus. The properly certified PIC as well as a Visual Observer (VO) must stand alongside the student when an FAA uncertified student operates the aircraft. SHSUPHY will use UASs operations below a 400ft. altitude in specific restricted access areas ineither Class G airspace or in airspace with APC permission using SHSUPHYtrained pilots in visual line of site for both the Pilot in Command (PIC) and Visual Observer(s) (VO). These restrictions for operations cohere withthe limits ofoperations inrecently granted Exemptions and the February 15, 2015 UAS NPRM. The UAS employed by SHSUPHY do not pose a safety threat to the NAS, groundpersonnel, or national security as they weigh less than 55 lb. and fly at speeds less than 100 mph below400ft. AGL. Therefore, the Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics (SHSUPHY) requests exemption from Part 21 Subpart H; and Sections 91.203 (a) (1), 45.23 (b), 91.7 (a), 91.9, 61.113, 61.133, 91.109, 91.119, 91.121, 91.151, and (91.401- 91.417) Subpart E, ofTitle 14, Code ofFederal Regulations (14 CFR) to allowthe operation for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus for Sam Houston State University research. 

### UnmannedAircraft Systems (UAS) The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus is an unmanned aircraft system, multi rotorbattery operated UAS, with a gross weight under 55 lb. It takes offand lands vertically and can hover in a single position. 

### DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus

• The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus carries an on-board camerathat transmits full color and high definition video and photos to the ground station control station for both the Pilot in Command's (PIC) safe operation ofthe aircraft and the constant monitoring ofits position in flight.

exemption request may result in line ofsight operations that might result in hazards to those participating in the use ofthe UAS, a treat to national security, or public safety. Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 2• The UAS also carries an on-board computer with a GPS navigation and location system. It receives flight control signals from the ground station to guide and direct the aircraft. • The 2.4GHz WI-FI on-board radio constantly transmits live video and flight data from the onboardtelemetry systemthrough the Range Extenderto the DJI Vision Ap on the smartphone for the PIC to monitorbothposition and flight communications. Beforetakeoffand whenthe GPS navigation system finds 6 or more GPS satellites the Flight Control System locks its homepoints and the Rear LED Flight Indicators blink a slow green indicating aircraft may takeoffand follow normal flight. • The on-board telemetry system continually transmits the on-board computerflight datathrough the on-board radio transmitter. Data includes compass direction offlight, altitude above ground level (AGL), both vertical and horizontal speed, and the direction back to the point oftakeoff. Ground Station Control System

• The PIC controls the aircraft through thejoy stick control stationto maintain full control ofthe aircraft for takeoff, flight, and landing. • The PIC through the 5.8GHz ground control station radio transmitter controls the aircraft in flight from takeoffto landing. • The DJI Vision App for the Smartphone attached to the ground control station displays the real time telemetry data for camerapitch, flight altitude and radar function, position, speed, Wi-Fi signal intensity, battery charge level, GPS status, micro-SD status, Range Extender Battery Level, and camera settings. • A Visual Observer (VO) visually tracks the UAS in flight to provide the PIC additional flight information for aircraft horizontal and vertical position. Pilot in Command (PIC) and Visual Observer (VO) Boththe PIC and the VO satisfy the requirements in FAA Policy N8900.227 Section 16 for personnel qualifications. In addition, the PIC and VO receive training for the maintenance ofthe DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus as part oftheircomprehensive UAS training. The operation ofthe DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus 2 with a weightbelow 55 lb. by a fully qualified flight crew and rigid operation following the 8900.227 guidelines with all the restrictions provided above gives the FAA complete confidence that flight operations have a level ofsafety equivalent or greater than a manned aircraft would have performing the same operation. Intended Use Therequested exemption will permit SHSUPHY to pursue research, support university instruction and training for precision agriculture and similar uses for UAS, support educational outreach to k-12 engagement in agriculture, and support university extension and training such as to those actively engaged in agriculture all ofwhich is for the public good. This petition requests authorization to conduct research flights consistent with the terms ofthis petition and the SHSUPHY Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 3operations manual, the operation manuals for each oftheUAS models used by SHSUPHY, the SHSUPHY operator training manual, and the SHSUPHY manual for maintenance and inspection all of which are available to the public. SHSUPHY requests an exemption for research and development with UAS, for informational and training seminars with those engaged in agriculture and agriculture education, for forestry plant and animal research, and for environmental research all for the public good. The UAS examines means to monitor animal behavior including body temperature and grazingpatterns and will employ thermal sensors to monitor body temperature for early detection ofdisease. The UAS employs cameras to examine grazing patterns for more effective animal feed. Further, the UAS studies soil and plant management to examine water usage and irrigation, turfand crop fertilization, weed control, insecticide and pesticide effectiveness, soil degradation, and crop yields. The UAS employs special sensors to measure gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrogen as well as the monitoring ofenvironmental concerns and waste management. The capability for the UAS to capture low altitude visual, thermal, and spectral imagery from a variety ofangles gives more effective images than possible with ground based systems. Further, the use ofUAS ratherthanmanned aircraftprovides the sameresults at significantly lower cost, at less risk for those on board manned aircraft, and at less risk for ground property and people. The Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics and Department ofAgricultural Sciences & Engineering Technology would like to include education and training for our students, in outreachto those involved in agriculture, forestation, and similarpursuits, and in outreachto those involved ink-12 agriculture. Educational outreachrequires the Pilot in Command (PIC) teach an unlicensed individual the flight operational procedures for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus before the individual orindividuals obtain FAA certification. Duringtraining, only individuals who possess a current FAA third-class airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District ofColumbia, Puerto Rico, ate1Titory, a possession, orthe Federal government will be permitted to operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus. Theproperly certified PIC as well as a Visual Observer (VO) must stand alongside the student when an FAA uncertified student operates the aircraft. Public Safety We propose this exemption in the interest ofproviding increased safety in the use ofUAS in research for precision agriculture and similar activities. We are pursuing the request for exemption in accordance withthe intent ofCongress in Section 333 ofthe FAA Modernization and Reform Act of20123 to permitthe use ofsafe systems in the national airspace in advance ofthe issuance offinal regulations for

3 P

.L. 112-95, 126 Stat II, February 14,2012

. Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 4the general use ofUAS.4The FAA has previously granted such reliefin ExemptionsNo. 11136, 11166, 11170,11177,11192,11193, 11194,and 12098. UAS employed by SHSUPHY do not pose a safety threat to the NAS, groundpersonnel, ornational security as they weigh less than 55 lb., fly at speeds less than 100 mph. and at altitudes below400ft. AGL. SHSUPHY operation ofUAS requires access to remote farmlands, forests, and waterways which in no waythreatens public safety, ground personnel, and national security. The SHSUPHY operations manual outlines required procedures for safety, aircraft and systems inspection, and aircraft and systems maintenance. SHSUPHYrestricts UAS operations in Class G airspace to altitudes below400 ft., five miles or greater from an airport or coordinated withATC, and not withoutthe consent ofthe property owner where flights are carried out. SHSUPHY will conduct all flights during daylight hours according to VFRrules with both a UAS trained pilot and observer who received training according to the SHSUPHYmanual. SHSUPHYUAS maintain fail safe features to automatically and slowly return to the home point and land automatically in the event ofan emergency. SHSUPHY UAS maintain fail safe features to automatically and slowlyreturnto the home point and land automatically to assure aircraft safety inthe event ofCommand and Control link failure. The SHSUPHY operations manual outlinesrisk factors for weather, obstacles in flight path, and unexpected events. The UAS operated by SHSUPHY use batteries for power, do not use combustiblejetfuel, have no people onboard, weigh less than 55 lb., are less than 2min size; operate at AGL less than 400ft., operate at speeds less than 1 00 mph, and maneuver more readily than larger aircraft all ofwhich provides greater operatingpersonnel safety and public safety. The extremely small payloads carried by UAS and flight times less than 30 minutes gives no risk or extremely minimumrisk for national security. SHSUPHY plans to offertraining for UAS operation, maintenance, and safety which significantly reduces risk and enhances operator, operating personnel safety. 

### 333 Exemption Request The Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics request for 333 Exemption resembles that of several requests for similar systems, uses, and operations and granted earlier by the FAA, and this request will not set aprecedent.

4 Section 333(b) (2) anticipates that the Federal Administration Authority (FAA) may provide a certificate waiver when it finds that a specific UAS with consideration for its size, weight, airworthiness, and speed as well as its proximity to areas of high populations and airp011s. The FAA also includes in its approval process whether or not the UAS as specified in the exemption request may result in line ofsight operations that might result in hazards to those participating in the use ofthe UAS, a treat to national security, or public safety. Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 5FAAreasons for granting ExemptionNos. 11062, 11109, 11112, 11213, 11624, and 13696 fit the Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics request for exemption. Granting Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics and exemption is in the public interest. Granting the Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics requests for exemptionbenefits the public good at equivalent orgreater safety than required in CFR. 

### Exemption is Requested from the Following Regulations The supplement contains theproposed safety for eachregulation for requested exemption

. 

### Regulation Location 14 CFR45.23 (b) Supplement, Page 1 14 CFR 61.113,61.133 Supplement, Page 1 14 CFRPart 21 Subpart H 14 CFR 91.203 (a) (1) Supplement, Page 4 14 CFR 91.7 (a) Supplement, Page 6 14 CFR 91.9 Supplement, Page 6 14 CFR 91.109 Supplement, Page 7 14 CFR 91.119 Supplement, Page 7 14 CFR 91.121 Supplement, Page 8 14 CFR 91.151 Supplement, Page 9 14 CFR Subpart E (91.401

- 91.417) Supplement, Page 9 FAAPolicy 8900.227 Paragraph 16(c) (4) and Paragraph 16(e) (1) Supplement, Page 10
I will modify oralter any section ofthis request for exemptionin orderto provide an equivalent level of safety. Please let me know ofany additional information youneed or for further explanation ofour request. I am the Point ofContact for this exemptionrequest. Sincerely,

Department ofPhysics Sam Houston State University Box 2267 Huntsville, Texas 77341-2267 936 294-1607 jfw008@shsu.edu

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 6Supplement Request for Exemption Equivalent SafetyLevel

I, John Wilson, Professor ofPhysics Sam Houston State University Depat1ment ofPhysics, request exemption from the following regulations that may apply to the operation ofDJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus by the Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics and Department ofAgricultural Sciences & Engineering Technology (SHSUPHY). 14 C.F.R. 45.23 (b). Marking ofthe Aircraft The regulation says: "(a) Each operator ofan aircraft must display on that aircraft marks consisting ofthe Roman capital letter "N" (denoting United States registration) followed by the registration numberofthe aircraft. Each suffix letterused in the marks displayed must also be a Roman capital letter. (b) When marks include only the Roman capital letter "N" and the registration numberis displayed on limited, restricted orlight-sport category aircraft or experimental orprovisionally certificated aircraft, the operatormust also display on that aircraft near each entrance to the cabin, cockpit, orpilot station, in letters not less than 2 inches nor more than 6 inches high, the words "limited," "restricted," "light-sport," "experimental," or "provisional," as applicable." While the UAS will not require an airworthiness certificate, an exemption is required as the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus does not have an entrance to the aircraft orto the pilot station where the "Aircraft Marks" may be placed. Further, its side does notpermittwo-inch lettering. Therefore, "Aircraft Marks" must be placed onthe fuselage to permitcompliance with 45.29 (f). Suchplacement on the fuselage in compliance with 45.29 (f) provides an equivalent safety level, and the Pilot in Command, Observers, and others using the UAS may see the identification ofthe UAS. The FAA issued exemptions to this regulation in Exemption Nos. 8738, 10700, 10167, and 10167 A. 14 CFR 61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilotin Command and 61.133 Commercial pilot privileges and limitations 14 CFR 61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in Command says: "61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command. (a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (h) ofthis section, no person who holds a private pilot certificate may act as pilot in command ofan aircraft that is carryingpassengers orproper1y for compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command ofan aircraft.
Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics(b) A private pilot may, for compensation orhire, act as pilot in command ofan aircraft in connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that business oremployment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers orproperty for compensation orhire. (c) A privatepilot may not pay less than the pro rata share ofthe operating expenses ofa flight with passengers, provided the expenses involve only fuel, oil, airport expenditures, orrental fees. (d) A private pilot may act as pilot in command ofa charitable, nonprofit, orcommunity event flight described in §91

.146, ifthe sponsorandpilot comply with the requirements of§91

.146. (e) A privatepilot may be reimbursed for aircraft operating expenses that are directly relatedto search and location operations, provided the expenses involve only fuel, oil, airport expenditures, orrental fees, and the operation is sanctioned and underthe direction and control of: (1) A local, State, or Federal agency; or (2) An organizationthat conducts search and location operations. (f) A private pilot who is an aircraft salesman and who has at least 200 hours oflogged flight time may demonstrate an aircraft in flight to a prospective buyer. (g) A private pilot who meets the requirements of§61.69 may act as a pilot in command ofan aircraft towing a gliderorunpowered ultralight vehicle

. (h) A privatepilot may act as pilot in command for the purpose ofconducting a productionflight test in a light-sport aircraft intended for certification inthe light-sport category under §21.190 ofthis chapter, provided that- (1) The aircraft is a poweredparachute or a weight-shift-control aircraft; (2) Thepersonhas at least 100 hours ofpilot-in-commandtime inthe category and class ofaircraft flown; and (3) Theperson is familiar with the processes and procedures applicable to the conduct ofproduction flight testing, to include operations conductedunder a special flight permit and any associated operating limitations." 14 CFR 61.133 Commercial pilot privileges and limitations says: "61.133 Commercial pilot privileges and limitations. (a) 

### Privileges-(!) General. A person who holds a commercialpilot certificate may act as pilot in command ofan aircraft- (i) Carrying persons orproperty for compensation orhire, provided the person is qualified in accordance with this part and with the applicable parts ofthis chapterthat apply to the operation; and (ii) Forcompensation or hire, providedthe person is qualified in accordance with this part and with the applicable pm1s ofthis chapterthat apply to the operation. (2) 

### Commercialpilots with lighter-than-air category ratings. A person with a commercial pilot certificate with a lighter-than-air category rating may- (i) 

### For an airship-(A) Give flight and ground training in an airship for the issuance ofa certificate or rating; (B) Give an endorsement for a pilot certificate with an airship rating; (C) Endorse a student pilot certificate orlogbook for solo operatingprivileges in an airship; (D) Act as pilot in command ofan airship under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimum prescribed for VFR flight; and

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 2(E) Give flight and ground training and endorsements that are required for a flight review, an operating privilege orrecency-of-experience requirements ofthis part. (ii) 

### For a balloon-(A) Give flight and ground training in a balloon for the issuance ofa certificate or rating; (B) Give an endorsement for apilot certificate with aballoon rating; (C) Endorse a studentpilot certificate orlogbook for solo operatingprivileges in a balloon; and (D) Give ground and flight training and endorsements that are required for a flight review, an operating privilege, orrecency-of-experience requirements ofthis part. (b) 

### Limitations. (1) A person who applies for a commercial pilot certificate with an airplane category or powered-lift category rating and does not hold an instrumentrating in the same category and class will be issued a commercial pilotcertificate that containsthe limitation, "The carriage ofpassengers for hire in (airplanes) (powered-lifts) on cross-country flights inexcess of50 nautical miles or at night is prohibited." The limitation may be removed whenthe person satisfactorily accomplishes the requirements listed in §61.65 ofthis part for an instrumentrating inthe same category and class of aircraft listed on the person's commercial pilot certificate. (2) Ifa person who applies for a commercialpilot certificate with a balloon rating takes a practical test in a balloon with an airborne heater- (i) The pilot certificate will contain a limitationrestrictingthe exercise oftheprivileges ofthat certificate to aballoon with an airborne heater. (ii) The limitation specified in paragraph (b)(2)(i) ofthis sectionmay be removed when the person obtains the required aeronautical experience in a gas balloon and receives a logbook endorsementfrom an authorized instructor who attests to the person's accomplishment ofthe required aeronautical experience and ability to satisfactorily operate a gas balloon. (3) Ifa person who applies for a commercial pilot certificate with a balloonratingtakes apractical test in a gas balloon- (i) The pilot certificate will contain a limitationrestricting the exercise oftheprivileges ofthat certificate to a gas balloon. (ii) The limitation specified in paragraph (b)(3)(i) ofthis section may be removed when the person obtains the required aeronautical experience in aballoon with an airborne heater and receives a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructorwho attests to the person's accomplishment ofthe required aeronautical experience and ability to satisfactorily operate a balloon with an airborne heater." We propose that the Pilot in Command (PIC) must either 1. Have a Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot Certificate issued by the FAA and have as a minimum conducted three takeoffs (launch) and three landings (recovery) in the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus within the previous 90 days which is consistent with Exemption Nos. 11213, 11624, and 13696., or 2. Satisfy the requirements of8900.227

**~**16(c)(2)(c) which says: "(c) Operations without a pilot certificate may be allowed when all ofthe following conditions are met: •The PIC has successfully completed, at a minimum, FAAprivatepilot ground instruction and passed the FAA Private Pilot written examination or FAA-recognized equivalents. (Airman Test Reports are valid for the 24 calendar-month periodpreceding the month the exam was completed, at which time the instruction and written examination must be repeated.) • Operations are during daylight hours.
Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 3• The operation is conducted in a sparsely populated location. • Operations are approved and conducted solely within visual line-of-sight in Class G airspace. • Visual line-of-sight operations are conducted no further than 'h NM laterally from the UAS pilot and at an altitude ofno more than 400 feet AGL at all times. Referto Appendix A for the visual line-of-sight definition. • Operations are conducted no closerthan 5 NM from any FAA-designated airport orheliport otherthan the airport from which the aircraft is operating. •The operation is conducted from a privately owned airfield, military installation, or off-airpm1 location." Because there are no available means suchthatthe Pilot in Command ofa UAS may obtain the experience inthe same category and class so that the Pilot in Commandmay apply for aprivate pilot's license, we propose to create an equivalent safety level through requiring the Pilot in Command complete at the minimum ofan FAA Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot ground instruction and pass the FAA Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot written examination in addition to finishing the Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot requirements which is consistent with ExemptionNos. 11213, 11624, and 13696

.. As the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus does not carrypeople or property, these requirements provide equivalent or better safety level as intended in 61.113 (b). The Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics and Department ofAgricultural Sciences & Engineering Technology would like to include education and training for our students, in outreach to those involved in agriculture, forestation, and similarpursuits, and in outreach to those involved in k-12 agriculture. Educational outreach requires the Pilot in Command (PIC) teach an unlicensed individual the flight operational procedures for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plusbefore the individual or individuals obtain FAA certification. During training, only individuals who possess a current FAAthird-class airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District ofColumbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, orthe Federal government will be permittedto operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus. The properly certified PIC as well as a Visual Observer (VO) must stand alongside the student when an FAA uncertified student operates the aircraft. 14 C.F.R. Part 21, SubpartH: Airworthiness Certificates 14 C.F.R. 91.203 (a) (1) 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H: Airworthiness Certificates provides the procedures for the granting of airworthiness certificates according to FAR 91.203 (a) (1).1t says: "91.203 Civil aircraft: Certifications required. (a) Except as provided in §91.715, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it has within it the following: (I) An appropriate and current airworthiness certificate. Each U.S. airwm1hiness certificate used to comply with this subparagraph (except a special flight permit, a copy ofthe applicable operations specifications issued under §21.197(c) ofthis chapter, appropriate sections ofthe air can·ier manual Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 4 •'required by parts 121 and 135 ofthis chapter containing thatportion ofthe operations specifications issued under §21.197(c), or an authorization under §91.611) musthave on it the registration number assigned to the aircraft underpart 47 ofthis chapter. However, the airworthiness certificate need not have on it an assigned special identification numberbefore 10 days after that number is first affixed to the aircraft. A revised airworthiness certificate having on it an assigned special identification number, that has been affixed to an aircraft, may only be obtained upon application to an FAA Flight Standards district office. (2) An effective U.S. registration certificate issued to its owner or, for operation within the United States, the second copy ofthe Aircraft registration Application as provided for in §47.31(c), a Certificate ofAircraft registration as provided inpart48, or a registration certification issued underthe laws ofa foreign country. (b) No person may operate a civil aircraftunless the airworthiness certificaterequired by paragraph (a) ofthis section or a special flight authorization issued under §91.715 is displayed at the cabin or cockpit entrance so that it is legible to passengers orcrew. (c) No person may operate an aircraft with a fuel tank installed withinthe passenger compartment or a baggage compartmentunless the installationwas accomplishedpursuantto part43 ofthis chapter, and a copy ofFAA Form 3 3 7 authorizing that installation is onboard the aircraft. (d) No person may operate a civil airplane (domestic orforeign) into or out ofan airport in the United States unless it complies with the fuel venting and exhaust emissions requirements ofpart 34 ofthis chapter. The petitioner's limited use, proposed operating area, flights below400 ft. AGL, speeds less than 100 mph, and distances restricted to Visual Line ofSight (VLOS) satisfy the requirements for an equivalent orhigher level ofsafety in Part 11 and Section 333 ofthe FMRA. The Federal Aviation Act (49 U.S.C. 4470 1 (f) and Section 3 3 3 ofthe FMRA give the FAAthe authorityto exempt aircraft for an airworthiness certificate when it considers the weight, size, operational capability, speed, and proximity to airports and populated areas for the UAS for which exemption is requested. In all instances proposed by the petitioner, examination ofthese standards show that the UAS operated without an airworthiness certificate in the restricted operating area and operating conditions provide an equivalent or higher level ofsafety than for a fixed wing aircraft (fixed wing orrotorcraft) operating with an airworthiness certificate. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus weighs less than 55 lbs. when fully loaded and as unmanned does not carry pilot, aircraft personnel, orotherpersonnel, does not carry flammable liquid fuels or explosive materials, and operates exclusively in a limited area offlight. The Pilot in Command and Observer(s) closely control and monitor flight operations to assure it operates in compliance with local public safety requirements unlike other civil aircraft operations. While these safety enhancements currently apply to civil aircraft, their application to the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus provides a significantly greater level ofsafety for the public and for property owners than do conventional operations for aircraft operated with airworthiness certificates issued under 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Finally, the application ofthese standards show that the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus does not pose a Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 5reasonable threat to national security when its weight, size, operational capability, speed, proximity to airports and populated areas, and its inabilityto carry a significant external load are considered. 

### 14 C.F.R. 91.7(a): Civil aircraft airworthiness The regulation says: "(a)No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition. (b) The pilot in command ofa civil aircraft is responsible for determining whetherthat aircraft is in condition for safe flight. The pilot in command shall discontinue the flight when unairworthy mechanical, electrical, or structural conditions occur." In the eventthatthe FAA grants this exemption, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus will not require an airworthiness certificate, andthere will notbe an FAAregulatory criteriato determine whether ornot the aircraft is airworthy. The requirement for a safety checkbefore each flight following the Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics manual, as well as the size ofthe aircraftprovides an equivalent orbetter safety level than required inthe regulation. 

### 14 CFR 91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, and placard requirements 14 CFR 91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, and placardrequirements says: "91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, andplacard requirements. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (d) ofthis section, no person may operate a civil aircraft without complying with the operating limitations specified inthe approved Airplane orRotorcraft Flight Manual, markings, and placards, or as otherwiseprescribedby the certificating authority ofthe country ofregistry. (b) No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft- (1) For which an Airplane orRotorcraft Flight Manual is required by §21.5 ofthis chapter unless there is available in the aircraft a current, approved Airplane orRotorcraft Flight Manual orthe manual provided for in §121.141(b); and (2) For which an Airplane orRotorcraft FlightManual is not required by §21.5 ofthis chapter, unless there is available in the aircraft a current approved Airplane orRotorcraft Flight Manual, approved manual material, markings, and placards, or any combinationthereof. (c) No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft unless that aircraft is identified in accordance with part 45 ofthis chapter." Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics requests exemption from this regulation and proposes that the current and approved DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus operations manual be available to the Pilot in Command, Visual Observers, and other operatingpersonnel when the

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 6aircraft is preparing for flight or in flight. Appendix B belowprovides the website for download ofthe DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus User Manual Vl.l. Earlier, the FAA issued exemptions to this regulation in ExemptionNos. 8607, 8737, 8738, 9299, 9299A, 9565, 10167, 10167A, 10602, 10700, and 32827. 14 CFR 91.109 Flight Instruction; Simulated instrument flight and certain flight tests 14 CFR 91.109 Flight Instruction; Simulated instrument flight and certain flight tests says: "91.109 Flightinstruction; Simulated instrument flight and certain flight tests. (a) No person may operate a civil aircraft (except a manned free balloon) that is being used for flight instruction unless that aircraft has fully functioning dual controls. However, instrument flight instruction may be given in an airplane that is equippedwith a single, functioning throwover control wheel that controls the elevator and ailerons, inplace offixed, dual controls, when- (1) The instructorhas determinedthat the flight can be conducted safely; and (2) The person manipulating the controls has at least aprivate pilot certificate with appropriate category and class ratings." The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus has only one ground station with a single small hand-held radio transmitter and does not offer a second radio transmitter. However, both the Pilot in Command, Instructor, and the student can and do operate the controls concurrently which meets the requirements of 91.109 and provides an equivalent safety level. 14 CFR 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General 14 CFR 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General says: "Exceptwhen necessary for takeoffor landing, no person may operate an aircraft belowthe following altitudes: (a) Anywhere. An altitude allowing, ifapowerunit fails, an emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the surface.

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 7(b) Over congested areas. Over any congested area ofa city, town, or settlement, or over any open air assembly ofpersons, an altitude of 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet ofthe aircraft. (c) Over otherthan congested areas. An altitude of500 feet above the surface, except over open water or sparsely populated areas. In those cases, the aircraft may not be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure. (d) Helicopters, powered parachutes, and weight-shift-control aircraft. Ifthe operation is conducted without hazard to persons orproperty on the surface- (1) A helicoptermay be operated at less than the minimums prescribed in paragraph (b) or (c) ofthis section, provided eachpersonoperating the helicopter complies with any routes or altitudes specifically prescribed for helicopters bythe FAA; and (2) A poweredparachute orweight-shift-control aircraft may be operated at less than the minimums prescribed inparagraph (c) ofthis section." The DJI Phantom 2 VisionPlus will not operate in populated or congested areas withoutprior approval. We will inform any involved property owner ofthe risks to people on the ground orproperty and planned flight path and will only operate inthe areawith the approval ofthe property owner. The aircraft will operate at a low altitude which will permit in the event ofa powerfailure an emergency landing without significant risk to people orproperty onthe ground. The Pilot in Command will set the return to home emergency feature to assure minimal risk to people and property on the ground. Therefore, the low altitude and low speed ofthe aircraft minimizes the riskto people and property onthe ground andprovides an equivalent orhigher level ofsafety compared to manned aircraft which shouldbe taken into accountwhen granting an exemption. 14 CFR91.121 Altimeter Settings 14 CFR 91.121 Altimeter Settings says: "Altimeter settings. (a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintainthe cruising altitude or flight level ofthat aircraft, as the case may be, by reference to an altimeterthat is set, when operating- (!) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to- (i) The current reported altimeter setting ofa station along the route and within 100 nautical miles ofthe aircraft; (ii) Ifthere is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(l)(i) ofthis section, the current reported altimeter setting ofan appropriate available station; or

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 8(iii) In the case ofan aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation ofthe departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure

..." The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus flies at altitudes below400ft. AGL and does not have to maintain altitudes to avoid conflict with other aircraft. The on board radio transmittertransmits the aircraft's current altitude above the takeoffpoint to the display screen held by the Pilot in Command and provides a continually updated AGL readout. Therefore, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus provides a safety level equivalent to orhigherthanthe regulation requirement. 

### 14 CFR91.151 Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions 14 CFR 91.151 Fuel requirements for flight inVFRconditions says: "(a) No person maybegin aflight in an airplane under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assumingnormal cruising speed- (1) During the day, to fly after that for at least 30 minutes; or (2) At night, to fly afterthat for at least 45 minutes. (b) Noperson maybegin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point ofintended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly afterthat for at least 20 minutes." The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus has sufficientbattery powerto fly 25 minutes

.The battery level indicator in the DJI Vision Ap turns red when the battery drops to 20% ofullycharged to permitthe Pilot in Commandto safelyreturnthe aircraftto home. The aircraft will never fly further than 1/4NM3/8NM from the intended landingpoint, and a fully charged battery assures that we meet the reserve energy requirement ofthis regulation. We request exemption from the word "fuel" and suggest the word "energy" in its place which will assure an equivalent or higher safety level. 

### 14 CFR SubpartE (91.401- 91.417)- Maintenance,PreventiveMaintenance,Alterations 14 CFR Subpart E (91.401

- 91.417)- Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Alterations (selections) says: "91 .403 General. (a) The owner or operator ofan aircraft is primarily responsible for maintaining that aircraft in an airwmihy condition, including compliance with part 39 ofthis chapter. (b) No person may perform maintenance,preventive maintenance, or alterations on an aircraft other than as prescribed in this subpart and other applicable regulations, including part 43 ofthis chapter

... Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 991.407 Operation aftermaintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration. (a) No personmay operate any aircraftthathas undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless- (1) Ithas been approved for return to service by a person authorized under §43.7 ofthis chapter

.. . 91.409 Inspections. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) ofthis section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within the preceding 12 calendarmonths, it has had- (1) An annual inspectionin accordance withpart43 ofthis chapter and has been approved for return to service by a person authorized by §43.7 ofthis chapter.

.." The Pilot in Command will performDJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus inspection and maintenance withthe authorization to return the aircraftto service. The Pre-Flight Checklist in Appendix A requires thatthe Pilot in Command conduct inspections regularly and before each flight to assure that the aircraft is airworthy for flight. The PIC does only limited maintenance such as propellerreplacement, repairing small cracks, updating software and aircraft firmware, and checking electrical connections. All other maintenance will be performedby DJI ortheir appointed facility. The PIC will maintain complete records accordingto 91.417. These procedures and the small size ofthe DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus assure an equivalent or greaterlevel ofsafety. 

### 8900.227 Paragraph 16(c)(4) PIC Medical. And Paragraph 16(e)(l) ObserverMedical 8900.227 Paragraph 16(c)(4) PIC Medical. And Paragraph 16(e)(l) ObserverMedical (Selections) says: "(4) PIC Medical. The PIC must maintain, at a minimum, a valid FAA second-class medical certificate issued under 14 CFRpart 67 orthe FAA-recognized equivalent. The second-class medical certificate expires at the end ofthe last day ofthe 12thmonth afterthe month ofthe date ofthe examination shown onthe medical certificate listed in § 61.23

... (1) Medical. All observers must have a valid FAA second-class medical certificate issued underpart 67; an FAA-recognized equivalent is an acceptable means ofdemonstrating compliance with this requirement. The second-class medical certificate expires at the end ofthe last day ofthe 12thmonth after the month ofthe date ofthe examination shown on the medical certificate. Section 91.17 or FAArecognized equivalent applies to all UAS crewmembers." We propose that the PIC hold a Private, Recreational, or Spm1 Pilot certificate and a current FAA thirdclass airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, orthe Federal government. This proposal is consistent with Exemption Nos. 11213, II624, and 13696.

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 10The Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics and Department ofAgricultural Sciences & Engineering Technology would like to include education and training for our students, in outreach to those involved in agriculture, forestation, and similarpursuits, and in outreach to those involved in k-12 agriculture. Educational outreachrequires the Pilot in Command (PIC) teach an unlicensed individual the flight operational procedures for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus before the individual orindividuals obtain FAA certification. Duringtraining, only individuals who possess a current FAA third-class airman medical certificate ora valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District ofColumbia, Puerto Rico, aterritory, apossession, or the Federal government will be permittedto operatethe DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus. Theproperly certified PIC as well as a Visual Observer (VO) must stand alongside the student when an FAAuncertified student operates the aircraft.

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 11Appendix A Flight Operations Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics operates the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus with the following restrictions. Flight Restrictions The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plusrequires both a Pilot in Command and a Visual Observerfor bothpreflight checks and flight. The following restrictions are stringently followed. 1. No operations are permitted without the presence ofboth a Pilot in Command and a Visual Observer able to communicate byvoice inpre-flight check and during flight. 2. The Pilot in Command must hold a current Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot certificate and a current FAAthird-class airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, theDistrict ofColumbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, orthe Federal government. 3. The Visual Observermust hold a current FAAthird-class airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District ofColumbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, orthe Federal government. 4. The Pilot in Command must have received training inthe DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus and have as a minimum conducted three takeoffs (launch) and three landings (recovery) inthe DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus within the previous 90 days. 5. Wewill not fly the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus over denselypopulated areas, open area assembly ofpeople, orwithin 5NM ofan airport orheliport withoutpriorapproval. 6. The Pilot in Command will thoroughly briefthe property owner and Visual Observer for the planned flight and any associated risks. 7. The Pilotin Command must perform a pre-flight inspection before each flight to assure the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus is in safe condition for operation. 8. All flights must be conducted in Class G airspace, at an airspeed less than 15 m/s, at no more than 400ft. AGL, and no further than 1/4NM-3/8NM from the Pilot in Command. 9. All flights will be restricted to day light and weather conditions equivalent to VFR. Pre-flight Checklist We will use the manufacturer'spre-flight check list as follows verbatim. 5
1. Assure the Remote Controller, Smart Battery, Range Extender, and smartphone are fully charged. 2. Propellers are mounted correctly. 3. Gimbal clamp has been removed.

5 DJI, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual V1.1 (Shenzhen, China: DJI, 2014), 37. A later version ofthe manual, Phanlom 2 Vision+ User Manual (EN) V1.8 2015-01-30, is also available as a download at http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2- vision-plus/info#downloads. Accessed January 28, 2016. Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 124. Damping absorbers are in good condition, not broken or worn. 5. Anti-drop kits have been mounted correctly. 6. Cameralens cap has been removed. 7. Micro-SD card has been inserted ifnecessary. 8. Gimbal is functioning as normal. 9. Motors can start and are functioning as normal. 10. DJI Vision App can connectto the camera. 

### Take Offand Landing Operations We follow the manufacturer's Takeoffand Landingprocedures as follows. 

### I. Flight Environment6

1. Do not use the aircraft in severe weather conditions These include wind speed exceeding category4, snow, rain and smog. 2. Fly in open fields as high buildings or steel structures may affectthe accuracy ofonboard compass. 3. Keep the DJIPhantom 2 Vision Plus away from obstacles, crowds, high voltage powerlines, trees orbodies ofwhen when in flight. 4. Reduce the chance ofelectromagnetic interference by not flying in areas with high levels of electromagnetism, including base stations or radio transmission towers. 5. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus cannot operate within the polar areas. 6. Do not fly the aircraft within no-fly zones specifiedby local laws and regulations. 

### II. Takeoff 7 1. Choose the Takeoff/Landing area in an area free ofconcrete or metal. Otherwise, the Compass cannotbe calibrated correctly, and the Failsafe mode will not function properly. 2. Calibratethe compass in every new location to set the FailsafeMode following DJI procedures. Referto Calibratingthe Compass (Page 38) for more details. 3. Place the Phantom 2 Vision Plus on open flat ground with battery indicators facing towards you. 4. Set both switches S 1and S2 on the Remote Controllerto Position 1. Refer to Remote Controller (Page 25) for more details. 5. Power on the Remote Controller and Range Extender, then the Smart Flight Battery. 6. Launch the DJI Vision App and bind it with your smartphone. Then enter the camerapreview page.

6 DJI, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual V1.1 (Shenzhen, China: DJI, 2014), 37. A later version ofthe manual, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual (EN) V1.8 2015-01-30, is also available as a download at http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2- vision-plus/info#downloads. Accessed January 28, 20 16

. 7 DJI, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual V J.1 (Shenzhen, China: DJI, 20 14), 40. A later version ofthe manual, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual (EN) V J.8 2015-01-30, is also available as a download at http://www.dji

.com/product/phantom-2- vision-plus/info#downloads. Accessed January 28, 2016

. Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 137. When the GPS navigation system finds 6 ormore GPS satellites the Flight Control System locks its home points and the Rear LED Flight Indicators blink a slow green indicating aircraft may takeoffand follow normal flight. 8. Wait until the UAS Rear LED Flight Indicatorblinks green indicating it has initialized and is Ready to Fly

.Ifit flashes yellow, it is in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode and will require more careful flight. Execute the Combination Stick Command (CSC)8 to start motors. 9. Pushthe throttle up slowly to take off. Referto Remote Controller (Page 25) for more details. 10. Shootphotos and videos using DJI Vision App. Referto DJI VisionApp Usage (Page 48) for more details. III. Landing9 1. To land, hover over a level surface, avoiding concrete ormetal, and gently pull down on the throttle to descend. 2. After landing, execute the CSC command. The Pilotin Command can use one oftwo methods to stop the motors. In the first method, the PIC pushesthe throttle down and executes the CSC command. In the second, the PIC pushes the throttle down and holds it down. The motors stop after 3 seconds

. 3. Tumoffthe SmartBattery, Range Extender, and Remote Controller. Failsafe Function Whenthe Remote Controller loses connection with the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus in flight, the Failsafe mode takes overto automatically fly the aircraft to home to reduce the possibility ofinjury or damage. Whenthe Rear LED Flight Indicatorblinks yellowrapidly inflight, the aircrafthas entered the Failsafe mode

. When the Rear LED Flight Indicator slowly orrapidly blinks red during flight, a lowbattery level is indicated and the Pilot in Command should fly the aircraft backto home. The Failsafe mode will activate for the following situations. 1. The Remote Controller shuts off. 2. The aircraft flies beyond the communicationrange between the Remote Controller and the aircraft radio transmitter. 3. An obstacle between the Remote Controller and the aircraft interferes with communication

. 4. Interference causes a problem with the remote controller.

8 The Combination Stick Command starts motors rather than pushing the stick up. Push both sticks to their bottom corners, right bottom corner for left stick and left bottom corner for right stick 9 OJI, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual V1

. 1(Shenzhen, China: DJI, 2014),40. A later version ofthe manual, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual (EN) V 1

.8 2015-01-30, is also available as a download at http:/ /www.dji.com/product/phantom-2- vision-plus/info#downloads

. Accessed January 28,2016. Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 14Lost Communications Any visual observer, sensor operator, or anyone else assigned the responsibility to provide collision avoidance must maintain communication with the UAS pilot. In the event communication between the observer, sensor operator or anyone else assigned the responsibilityto provide collision avoidance loses communication with the UAS pilot, the UAS pilot will immediately return the UAS to Home point and landto avoid injury or damage. Under no circumstances will the UAS pilot fly the UAS without first settingthe Fail Safe mode and the GPS coordinates for the Home point. An observer will stand alongside the UAS pilot to monitor flight conditions using the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus DJI Vision App on the Smartphone. Should the DJI Vision App show the loss ofGPS, low battery, or flight obstacles, the observer will inform the UAS Pilot without hesitation, and the UAS pilot will immediatelyreturnthe UAS to Home point and land to avoid injury or damage. When observers are stationed in other areas to visually monitorthe UAS flight, the UAS pilot and the observer monitoring the DJI Vision App alongside the UAS pilot will maintain visual contact withthem. Should the UAS pilot orthe observer monitoring the DJI Vision App alongside the UAS pilot lose visual contact with any observer, the UAS pilot will immediatelyreturn the UAS to Home point and land to avoid injury or damage. Underno circumstances will the UAS pilot operate the UAS outside VLOS. Should the UAS pilot or any observer lose UAS VLOS, the UAS pilot will immediatelyreturnthe UAS to Home point and land to avoid injury or damage. Lost LinkProcedure(s) The Phantom will enter Failsafe mode whenits connection to the Remote Controller is lost. The Flight Control System will automatically control the aircraft to return to home and land to prevent injury or damage. Home Point: When the Phantom enters 'Readyto Fly' from the 'Readyto Fly status (non-GPS)', the GPS coordinates will be recorded and set as the Homepoint. • When Remote Controller signal is lost, the aircraft will return to the recorded Home point coordinates and land. • Home point coordinates are used to calculate the horizontal distance ofthe aircraft (shown as "Distance" on the GUI ofthe DJI Vision App). • After successfully recording the home point, rear LED flight indicators blink fast green. Dynamic Home Point: The Home point will be reset to position ofthe mobile device at specific time intervals. • Fnahle dynamic Home point in DJI Vision app or Phantom 2 Assistant. • Dynamic Home point is only available to the GPS-enabled mobile device. Turn on GPS and data service to obtain higher accuracy ofthe mobile device position

. • Dynamic Home point is useful in situations when you are in motion and require a Home point that is different from the takeoffpoint. When Will Failsafe Activate? 1. The Remote Controller is powered off. Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 152. The Phantom has flown out ofeffectiveremote controllerrange. 3. The signal between the Remote Controller and the Phantom has been blocked. 4. There is interference causing a signal problem with the Remote Controller. Failsafe Procedure Initiating the Failsafe mode from different flying statuses will result in different landing processes. Ready to Fly (non-GPS)

- Automatic landing TheFlight Control System will keep the aircraft level during descent and landing. 

### It may drift during the descent and landing process. Ready to Fly- Automatic go home and land The Flight Control System will automatically control the aircraft to fly back to the Home point and land. Caution: • To insure the aircraft's successful returnto home after Failsafe activation, aim to fly in Ready to Fly mode. • The Phantom will automatically descend during the Failsafeprocess ifthere are less than 6 GPS satellites detected for more than 20 seconds. • When the aircraft is landing automatically, users can control the aircraft's position and altitude if the remote controller signal is recovered. • Aircraft cannot navigate around vertical obstacles on its returnhome course during Failsafe. However, you can set returnhome altitude value inPhantom assistance to avoid hitting vertical obstacles through DJI PhantomAssistant. Note: Quickly flipping the S2 switch ofthe Remote Controllerfrom top to bottom 5times or more will reset the current aircraftposition as a newHomepoint. RearLED flight indicators will blink green rapidly when successful. Howto regain control: • When the S1 switch is switched to Position-1, toggle the S1 switchto any otherposition once to regain control. Ifthe Remote Controller signal is recovered, control is returned to the pilot. • Regain control as soon as signal is recovered. Low Battery Level Warning Function Ifthe DJI smartbattery is depleted to apointthat may affect the safe return ofthe aircraft, the lowbattery level warning notifies users to take action. Users are advised to land the aircraft immediately when they observe these warnings. The thresholds for these warnings are automatically determined based on the current aircraft altitude and its distance from the Home point. When these warnings are triggered, please bring the aircraft back to the Home point or land to avoid losing power during flight." 10

10 DJI, DJJ Phantom 2 Vision+ U\'er Manual v. 1.8, 27-28. http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2-vision-plus/download. Accessed June 16,2015. Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 16Appendix B User Manuals 

### The DJI Phantom 2 VisionPlus usermanual may be downloaded at http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2-vision-plus/info#downloads. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+User Manual Vl.l contains the procedures for aircraft inspection, maintenance, pre-flight check, flight operations, and emergencyprocedures. The manual can be provided on request.

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 17